Camping at the Carson National Forest elevation of 8,750 feet provides cooler summer conditions than much of New Mexico. Temperature variations between day and night can exceed 30 degrees, with summer nights commonly dropping to 45-50°F. Forest Service roads leading to dispersed camping locations typically require high-clearance vehicles with several campgrounds positioned along the Red River at various elevations.
What to do
Trout fishing in stocked waters: Fawn Lakes Campground offers designated fishing areas including two ponds specifically for trout fishing. "The ponds fill up with quite a few people now. I like to walk up and down the river to find some good spots that are a little quieter," reports a visitor at Fawn Lakes Campground.
Hiking established trails: Multiple trail options exist within or connected directly to campsites. "Hiking trails from the campground," notes a camper at Columbine Campground, while another adds, "We hiked a little bit of the Columbine Twining hiking trail - can't wait to go back to be able to hike more!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse mountain wildlife. At Eagle Nest Lake State Park Campground, campers report: "Awesome wildlife in the area. The deer would come by every evening and the prairie dogs were constantly entertaining."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Proximity to flowing water ranks high among camper preferences. A guest at Red River RV stated: "Our camp is right next to the river, there is a shuttle that takes you into town, the facilities are clean and close by, and the fishing is great."
Multiple camping configurations: Sites accommodate various setups. At Columbine Campground, a reviewer noted: "Pads are well maintained and each site I saw had multiple tent options. Even if your pad does not have shade, each site has ample shade to the back of the site along the Creek."
Clean facilities despite remote locations: Maintenance standards remain high at most establishments. "The vault toilets were extremely clean and even pleasant smelling," shares a camper from Columbine Campground, while another mentions: "We had access to a fire pit as well as a grill and table. The creek flowed about 75' from the site."
What you should know
Limited services and amenities: Prepare for minimal facilities at more remote locations. At Cabresto Lake Campground, a visitor warns: "Definitely need an all terrain vehicle for the drive up to lake. Rough dirt road. Got a flat tire. Campgrounds undeveloped. Very crowded. Lots of traffic throughout the day."
Weather variability: Mountain conditions change rapidly. "It rained only in the afternoons but everyday," reports a Cimarron Campground visitor, while another at Cabresto Lake notes camping seasons are typically May through September due to elevation and weather conditions.
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires planning for appropriate vehicles. "The road up to the lake is pretty rocky so we had to air down our tires so that we don't get back aches after our day 4x4 goose lake trail getaway," explains a Cabresto Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's fishing areas: Some locations provide special fishing options for younger anglers. In the Shuree Ponds area near Cimarron Campground, "The smaller was reserved for kids's fishing. Both are classied as 'Green Chile' waters so only flies or artificial lures with a single, barbless hook are allowed. 2 fish limit."
Consider campgrounds with playgrounds: Family-friendly amenities improve the experience. At 4K River Ranch, a visitor mentions: "We enjoyed the small play area and the stream."
Choose sites with level ground for tent camping: Not all sites accommodate family-sized tents equally. A Cimarron Canyon State Park visitor warned: "We stayed in the tent only portion... Problem being there are no pull in spots for the individual tent sites....just parking along the camp road. Also, sites are right on top of each other."
Tips from RVers
Watch for entry clearance at some parks: Navigational challenges exist at certain locations. At Road Runner RV Resort, a camper advises: "The gate coming into the park is tight so when the gentleman says make a lazy turn he means a REAL lazy turn."
Research site leveling before arrival: Not all RV sites provide level parking. At 4K River Ranch, the sites receive positive comments: "Level spots host are amazing, super helpful and attentive."
Consider seasonal visits carefully: Temperature variations impact comfort levels. "We stayed for 10 days during the 'off season' at the end of April. It was beautiful and quiet. The snow was melting and the river was beautiful," reports a Red River RV guest, indicating early season camping may encounter spring runoff and mud conditions.
